Recruitment of former common prisoners into the armed forces of Ukraine
In the midst of the current situation in Ukraine, the creation of new units of the Ukrainian army composed exclusively of former common prisoners has been announced. These individuals have been released after signing contracts to join the military and will be deployed to the front lines. According to the Minister of Justice of Ukraine, Denis Maliuska, this measure aims to avoid the mixing of convicted persons and ordinary soldiers, although the possibility of reconsidering this decision in the future has been left open.
Recruitment and training of new recruits
Ukrainian courts have approved petitions by more than 600 common prisoners to sign contracts with the army and leave prison before serving their full sentences. These new recruits are receiving military training to prepare before being sent into combat. According to data from the Ministry of Justice, around 5,000 common prisoners have requested to join the army, and it is estimated that between 15,000 and 20,000 prisoners have the right to take advantage of this option, as long as they have not been convicted of serious crimes such as multiple murder, rape or political corruption.
The call to use Western weapons on Russian territory
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has urged Western countries to allow Ukraine to use the weapons they have given it to defend itself against Russian aggression, including on Russian territory. Stoltenberg has highlighted the need to reconsider existing restrictions, as Ukraine is limited in its ability to respond to attacks from Russian territory. This request has generated debate, since the Kremlin has expressed its contrary position.